'It's a great challenge'

' sporting director, Christian Heidel. "He took over the team at a tricky stage of the season and has provided the right momentum so that we have in sight the prospect of a successful end to the season."

The 48-year-old Swiss coach, who was previously in charge of the club's U-23s, took the reins at the club in mid-February after the dismissal of Kasper Hjulmand. Since taking control of the seniors, Schmidt has lifted the side clear of the relegation zone and picked up three wins, including a

over SC Freiburg on Matchday 29. "I'm really pleased with the trust that this contract places in me," he explained. "It's a great challenge to be in charge of developing the Mainz team and continuing the work of my predecessors. The task, though, is made easier by the close co-operation within the club and also the city and our fans. For me, there is no greater motivation ahead of the coming games than that of ensuring the club's place in the Bundesliga."

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